Devishobha Chandra 
The pandemic can be credited with accelerating some learning trends that are here to stay, even when the pandemic is over. Online learning is a trend that does not go away even after the pandemic ends, simply because it has many advantages.
The deluge of online learning information has also led to an undeniable decline in attention spans. The attention span for learning effectively was commonly estimated to be at about 18-20 minutes in the pre-COVID era. In today’s times, terms like zoom fatigue and scattered focus are increasingly common – leading to a sharp decline in learning and attention spans.
A new challenge presents itself for effective online learning- and that is to meet learning outcomes in compressed periods. Learning now demands to be delivered bite-sized and in extremely short bursts.
Microlearning Vs. Nano Learning: Microlearning delivers bite-sized learning modules within 15 minutes with specific learning objectives. Nano learning delivers modules within 2 minutes focusing on teaching one skill within the learning objective. They are laser-focused and attain learning objectives quickly.
Here are 7 reasons why micro and nano learning are here to stay:
1. Meets the exact learning need of the student: Micro and Nano learning focus on meeting the student’s learning needs in a laser-focused manner. It is especially useful for learning progression – transitioning from what to why to how.
For example – To learn how to build an app, the modules can focus on specific learning progressions in bite-sized steps.
2. Applies the Pareto Principle: Micro and nano-learning methods apply the Pareto principle effectively to learning effectiveness, where 80% of learning happens by applying only 20% effort into learning. The low effort-high results models help learners actively pursue learning even while being engaged in other activities.
3. Encourages reinforcement of learning: Micro and nano learning present an opportunity for agility in learning. They are short and quick, making them highly suited for repetition to reinforce learning within short periods. Micro and nano modules can be conveniently spaced to build a customized sticky learning experience for the learner.
4. Helps set and monitor: Micro and nano learning are focused on targeted learning needs – hence they motivate educators to set, track and measure learning objectives with the delivery of a learning module. For example, building a chat feature within an app-building course module is a specific learning objective that can be used across platforms.
5. Delivers in multiple modes: Science says that there are learners who prefer 4 different learning styles: Auditory, Kinesthetic, Visual, and Reading/Writing learners. Micro and Nano’s learning is supported by multiple learning channels, thereby supporting various learning styles. A visual learner can choose a video-based delivery mode, whereas an auditory learner can choose to learn from a podcast. It supports learning with text, pictures, audio, and video.
6. Beats learning fatigue: A short goal-oriented content module opens the potential for a more ‘ready’ approach to learning by reducing learning anxiety and overwhelm. A 2- minute module is far more likely to be absorbed than a 40-minute learning module.
7. Support budget-friendly learning options: Since the modules are short and targeted towards specific learning goals, they can also turn out to be a rather- pocket-friendly learning resource helping the learner choose exactly what they need to meet their learning goals point.
- edCircuit – Devishobha’s column entries
- Kidsintha – Academic Achievement: Why you should re-think everything you know about it.
- Study International – Is nanolearning the way forward?
